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Take a Chance #3
Play Me
Scoring is only part of the game...
Today, I was supposed to get married, but thanks to my dick of an ex, there's no happily-ever-after in sight. So tonight, I'm aiming for a happy ending, one that involves a whole lot of champagne, and the hottest sex of all—revenge sex. Garrett Kelly is just the man to satisfy my needs, both in and out of the bedroom. All I need to do is to make the first move...
For one night, he's everything I wanted and needed. Of course, now I've gone and crossed the line between friendship and…something else. Getting involved with an unreliable guy is always a bad idea, and falling in love? Even worse. Now my little game of hot-sex-and-revenge has taken a hell of a turn—and this time, there are consequences.
Today, I was supposed to get married, but thanks to my dick of an ex, there's no happily-ever-after in sight. So tonight, I'm aiming for a happy ending, one that involves a whole lot of champagne, and the hottest sex of all—revenge sex. Garrett Kelly is just the man to satisfy my needs, both in and out of the bedroom. All I need to do is to make the first move...
For one night, he's everything I wanted and needed. Of course, now I've gone and crossed the line between friendship and…something else. Getting involved with an unreliable guy is always a bad idea, and falling in love? Even worse. Now my little game of hot-sex-and-revenge has taken a hell of a turn—and this time, there are consequences.
108 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 29, 2013
About the author
Diane Alberts
32 books1,149 followersDiane Alberts is a USA TODAY bestselling Contemporary Romance author with Entangled Publishing. Under the name Jen McLaughlin, she also writes New York Times, USA TODAY, and Wall Street Journal bestselling books with Penguin RandomHouse. She was mentioned in Forbes alongside E. L. James as one of the breakout independent authors to dominate the bestselling lists. Diane is represented by Louise Fury at The Bent Agency.
Diane has always been a dreamer with a vivid imagination, but it wasn’t until 2011 that she put her pen where her brain was, and became a published author. Since receiving her first contract offer, she has yet to stop writing. Though she lives in the mountains, she really wishes she was surrounded by a hot, sunny beach with crystal clear water. She lives in Northeast Pennsylvania with her four kids, a husband, a schnauzer mutt, and three cats. Her goal is to write so many fantastic stories that even a non-romance reader will know her name.
- See more at: http://www.dianealberts.com/about/#st...
Diane has always been a dreamer with a vivid imagination, but it wasn’t until 2011 that she put her pen where her brain was, and became a published author. Since receiving her first contract offer, she has yet to stop writing. Though she lives in the mountains, she really wishes she was surrounded by a hot, sunny beach with crystal clear water. She lives in Northeast Pennsylvania with her four kids, a husband, a schnauzer mutt, and three cats. Her goal is to write so many fantastic stories that even a non-romance reader will know her name.
- See more at: http://www.dianealberts.com/about/#st...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
August 2, 2013
This included of all of the best components of contemporary romance. The main focus of the story is the friend-to-lover romance between Kiersten and Garrett. There is just the right amount of balance between sexual tension, emotional development, and the promise of a long-term commitment.
I loved Garrett’s character. His ability to demand more of Kiersten offset his vulnerable nature perfectly. The author wrote his character with such proficiency. However, the reason I did not rate this story higher was due to my failure to connect with heroine; her often immature behavior left me feeling that Garrett deserved better treatment. I felt my inability to connect to Kiersten was mainly due to a lack of empathy her background story generated. The author presented Kiersten’s character as a strong independent woman, yet her dialogue and responses were often childish.
The overall romance was emotionally satisfying. I will checkout the prior installments in this series.
Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.
I loved Garrett’s character. His ability to demand more of Kiersten offset his vulnerable nature perfectly. The author wrote his character with such proficiency. However, the reason I did not rate this story higher was due to my failure to connect with heroine; her often immature behavior left me feeling that Garrett deserved better treatment. I felt my inability to connect to Kiersten was mainly due to a lack of empathy her background story generated. The author presented Kiersten’s character as a strong independent woman, yet her dialogue and responses were often childish.
The overall romance was emotionally satisfying. I will checkout the prior installments in this series.
Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.
July 31, 2013
Im tired. I am just so damn….tired!!
Male – I am to scared to connect – drama makes me roll my eyes, but I deal. I muddle trough.
But then – life hits me with a book that has female –I am to scared to be in a relationship- drama. For some reason, even though these books are in fact written by women, the girl-drama is always over the top, whiny, and just plain old disgusting. It bores me. And more importantly – it pisses me off.
I have no idea what happened in this book. Even hours after reading it, it’s all a vague memory in the back of my mind. But the utter distaste I feel in relation to the emotionally stunned female lead is very fresh, very strong, and very NOW.
So, a man cheated on you?
Horrible!
A relationship you were in ended badly?
I am so so so sorry!
You have a hard time trusting men in general?
Well…ok. It’s not like you were raped and beaten, somebody just broke up with you. But, dramatics aside, I can, kind off, see your point.
You don’t want to ever be in another relationship, ever?
Drastic, don’t you think? Maybe you should try making decision that don’t make you look like a 13 year old?
Everybody is going to hurt you, even the sweet sensitive guy that loved you since childhood?
Yeah, that dushebag, being all nice, supportive and stuff!
The right decision is to push away any good men that want a future with you, because, oh Lordy-Lord, you had a bad experience? Hm? Hmmm?
No, you retard. No!
Grow a spine!
Start using your brain! Less whining!
You wanna be a heroine? Put on your big girl panties, and stop making me grind my teeth together!
I read a 100+ kindle pages waiting for an idiot to pull her head out of her ass. And she didn’t even have any real problems! She just glides trough life, problem-less, while nice things happen to her, and good people fall in to her life! So, this girl dares sprout anguish?
No. Let’s just kill her off, and give the hero a real heroine.
End of discussion.
Male – I am to scared to connect – drama makes me roll my eyes, but I deal. I muddle trough.
But then – life hits me with a book that has female –I am to scared to be in a relationship- drama. For some reason, even though these books are in fact written by women, the girl-drama is always over the top, whiny, and just plain old disgusting. It bores me. And more importantly – it pisses me off.
I have no idea what happened in this book. Even hours after reading it, it’s all a vague memory in the back of my mind. But the utter distaste I feel in relation to the emotionally stunned female lead is very fresh, very strong, and very NOW.
So, a man cheated on you?
Horrible!
A relationship you were in ended badly?
I am so so so sorry!
You have a hard time trusting men in general?
Well…ok. It’s not like you were raped and beaten, somebody just broke up with you. But, dramatics aside, I can, kind off, see your point.
You don’t want to ever be in another relationship, ever?
Drastic, don’t you think? Maybe you should try making decision that don’t make you look like a 13 year old?
Everybody is going to hurt you, even the sweet sensitive guy that loved you since childhood?
Yeah, that dushebag, being all nice, supportive and stuff!
The right decision is to push away any good men that want a future with you, because, oh Lordy-Lord, you had a bad experience? Hm? Hmmm?
No, you retard. No!
Grow a spine!
Start using your brain! Less whining!
You wanna be a heroine? Put on your big girl panties, and stop making me grind my teeth together!
I read a 100+ kindle pages waiting for an idiot to pull her head out of her ass. And she didn’t even have any real problems! She just glides trough life, problem-less, while nice things happen to her, and good people fall in to her life! So, this girl dares sprout anguish?
No. Let’s just kill her off, and give the hero a real heroine.
End of discussion.
March 1, 2015
Garrett has had a crush on Kiersten as far back as he can remember. He’s best friends with her brother, coach and teacher of the nephew she took in when her older sister died and he’s been the shoulder she’s secretly cried on after her ex broke her heart. The desire for more with her has never faded once and for one night he’s about to get everything he wanted... until she pushes him away.
Kiersten grew up quickly when she decided to step up and be the mother to Chris, her nephew, when her sister died when he was just a baby. She allowed one man to get close enough to be part of their lives, but when he broke her heart and trust – she vowed she’d never let anyone else in. But when one night with Garrett changes everything, she has to fight her reflex to push him away and learn to trust that a man like Garrett isn’t about to let her down.
This was a cute friends to lover’s romance. I really liked Garrett but I was a little annoyed with Kiersten. She was too weak for my tastes. I might have missed more of her back story by skipping the prior books in this series, so maybe there was more to her story than what I read... but I just wanted to throttle her for the way she was in this. I am not sure why one broken romance turns these females into complete idiots about love. It’s hard to really love a female character that is this weak, one that can’t get up after being knocked down. But it is the common theme in most romances – I just wish that would change just a bit.
Garrett was decent. He pretty much already loved her from the start and watching him try to be there and get her to realize that she felt the same way was the part of the story I focused on. The way the events played out and the impact their one night had on the rest of their lives was done well. Since this was a short read you really didn’t get to see him reform from man-whore into family man, but seeing him step into that role was what kept me reading.
This was cute little romance that was enough to get me to read the next in the series and consider going back and picking up the first few that I originally skipped over.
Kiersten grew up quickly when she decided to step up and be the mother to Chris, her nephew, when her sister died when he was just a baby. She allowed one man to get close enough to be part of their lives, but when he broke her heart and trust – she vowed she’d never let anyone else in. But when one night with Garrett changes everything, she has to fight her reflex to push him away and learn to trust that a man like Garrett isn’t about to let her down.
This was a cute friends to lover’s romance. I really liked Garrett but I was a little annoyed with Kiersten. She was too weak for my tastes. I might have missed more of her back story by skipping the prior books in this series, so maybe there was more to her story than what I read... but I just wanted to throttle her for the way she was in this. I am not sure why one broken romance turns these females into complete idiots about love. It’s hard to really love a female character that is this weak, one that can’t get up after being knocked down. But it is the common theme in most romances – I just wish that would change just a bit.
Garrett was decent. He pretty much already loved her from the start and watching him try to be there and get her to realize that she felt the same way was the part of the story I focused on. The way the events played out and the impact their one night had on the rest of their lives was done well. Since this was a short read you really didn’t get to see him reform from man-whore into family man, but seeing him step into that role was what kept me reading.
This was cute little romance that was enough to get me to read the next in the series and consider going back and picking up the first few that I originally skipped over.
August 10, 2013
Source: eARC for Honest Review from Entangled Publishing via NetGalley
Garrett is a super sweetheart who has never gotten over his highschool crush Kiersten
Kiersten is a single mom of her nephew whom she has custody after losing her sister.
For Kiersten her family comes first. Once in her life she gave a chance on love but got burnt so inturn she has refused to ever love again.
"I think you underestimate her pain." "And you underestimate my committment."
For Garrett who has remained friends with Kiersten for years jumps at the chance to be with her during a moment of weakness for Kiersten.
For Garrett he thinks that they will finally be together but for Kiersten it is another story and she pushes Garrett away.
Their one time together aka mistake leads to a bit oops. But for Garrett he is finally given the chance to convince Kiersten it is ok to love again.
But for Kiersten she is to goddammed stubborn to see this and does nothing but hurt Garrett over and over again.
"When your heart is broken. It's not easy to just tape it back together and move on. Especially when you have a kid."
I wanted to throttle her with this as really you got burnt ONCE. Not multiple times like most people but ONCE GET OVER IT!!!
Finally after realizing that she is an asshat and sees the truth in Garrett's love she finally sucumbs to the second chance of love and happiness.
I like this series. They are a very quick reads and are about love and second chances.
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Garrett is a super sweetheart who has never gotten over his highschool crush Kiersten
Kiersten is a single mom of her nephew whom she has custody after losing her sister.
For Kiersten her family comes first. Once in her life she gave a chance on love but got burnt so inturn she has refused to ever love again.
"I think you underestimate her pain." "And you underestimate my committment."
For Garrett who has remained friends with Kiersten for years jumps at the chance to be with her during a moment of weakness for Kiersten.
For Garrett he thinks that they will finally be together but for Kiersten it is another story and she pushes Garrett away.
Their one time together aka mistake leads to a bit oops. But for Garrett he is finally given the chance to convince Kiersten it is ok to love again.
But for Kiersten she is to goddammed stubborn to see this and does nothing but hurt Garrett over and over again.
"When your heart is broken. It's not easy to just tape it back together and move on. Especially when you have a kid."
I wanted to throttle her with this as really you got burnt ONCE. Not multiple times like most people but ONCE GET OVER IT!!!
Finally after realizing that she is an asshat and sees the truth in Garrett's love she finally sucumbs to the second chance of love and happiness.
I like this series. They are a very quick reads and are about love and second chances.
For more reviews, visit Live Read and Breathe
Like us on Facebook Live Read and Breathe Facebook
Follow along with Twitter Live Read and Breathe Twitter
August 9, 2013
What a great, steamy romance!
Kiersten has been a single mom to her nephew ever since his mom passed away and she isn't interested in anything else. Especially since she caught her fiancé sleeping with his secretary. But can one night with her brothers best friend, Garrett, change her mind? Or will she stay stubborn and push him away?
You know what I liked most about this book? I didn't have to wait for the steamy hotness to come around. Normally you don't get the sex scene until after 50% of the book as come and gone. Not here. Nope. We jump right into it and it totally works for this story. I will say that Kiersten was driving me a bit nutty about half way through. I mean Garrett is sweet, sexy, hot as the sun...just give in already! lol Still I liked how this story was totally believable and not all Too Good To Be True.
Overall this was a hot read that I look forward to reading again in the near future!
Kiersten has been a single mom to her nephew ever since his mom passed away and she isn't interested in anything else. Especially since she caught her fiancé sleeping with his secretary. But can one night with her brothers best friend, Garrett, change her mind? Or will she stay stubborn and push him away?
You know what I liked most about this book? I didn't have to wait for the steamy hotness to come around. Normally you don't get the sex scene until after 50% of the book as come and gone. Not here. Nope. We jump right into it and it totally works for this story. I will say that Kiersten was driving me a bit nutty about half way through. I mean Garrett is sweet, sexy, hot as the sun...just give in already! lol Still I liked how this story was totally believable and not all Too Good To Be True.
Overall this was a hot read that I look forward to reading again in the near future!
July 25, 2014
When I read the blurb, I couldn't resist what is one of my favorite tropes - friends to lovers. Kiersten has known a lot of tragedy in her life. First, she lost her parents, then her sister and brother-in-law in a car accident, then Pete, her fiancé, cheated on her. As her nephew's legal guardian, she's also a single mom. She doesn't trust men or relationships anymore, mostly to guard her heart, but also because it's best for her nephew, Chris. Garrett has had a crush on Kiersten since high-school. That crush never waned, but since Kiersten's ended engagement, he's been put firmly in the friend's corner. On the one year anniversary of what would have been her wedding day, she has a moment of weakness fueled by anger and resentment towards her ex. She knows Garrett is interested and he's the best candidate to help her scratch her itch. She didn't count on him wanting much more than she was prepared to ever give. He's tenacious and becomes even more determined when she tells him they're about to become parents.
I really wanted to like this story because the plot was good, the obstacles were somewhat believable, but the characters didn't really carry this story very well. I understood the heroine's feelings over the losses she's experienced in her life. When Pete cheated, he not only broke her, but he had also hurt Chris. It was no wonder she preferred to be alone. I just didn't approve of how she went about dealing with it and her treatment of the men in her life. Garrett was sweet and loving, kind of the perfect guy. But I couldn't understand why he was attracted to Kiersten in the first place. She used him and kept pushing him away, even during the pregnancy, and she had no friends (I am not counting the neighbor that popped by once to bring her some food as a friend). Why did he let her jerk him around for so long? I felt like I spent so much time in Kiersten's head that it didn't help me like her despite coming around at the end. I thought her wavering emotions dragged on far too long with her trying to hold to her mantra. And I don't think it was the pregnancy hormones.
Then there was her overly protective brother and Garrett's best friend, Matt. He kept warning Garrett away from acting on his crush, but I would have thought Matt would be happy that a man like Garrett would be there for her. Especially after the Pete fiasco. Having her repeat how all of it was Pete's fault was also a little annoying. I think that was well established in the beginning of the story, and the point didn't need to be driven home throughout the story.
There was also one small inconsistency:
He used to have a crush on her back in high school and probably still wondered what it would be like between them, so less likely to reject her. - (Kiersten is outlining why she's about to make a move on Garrett, Chapter Two)
Then ...
Garrett squinted through his good eye, trying to focus on Mike. "I'm sorry, man, but you know how I've felt about her since high school. This can't be much of a surprise."
"What?" Kiersten looked at Garrett in surprise. "What do you mean?" - (Chapter Six)
Why was she surprised? She knew about the crush in chapter two.
Overall, I felt that the characters were a little bland and immature. I didn't believe the chemistry; I didn't believe the budding relationship. The painful journey of waiting for her character to peak was fraught with one too many "I don't want to" and "I can't". This story wasn't what I expected, but I may try something else by this author at another time.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review.
August 26, 2013
I really really enjoyed Play Me! :D I thought that Garrett was a fantastic guy, and I definitely understood Kiersten's reluctance for relationships! I also really enjoyed their chemistry! :D
This is the first book I've read in the Take a Chance series, so I'm not sure if I might have missed a bit of the groundwork that set the stage for Kiersten and Garrett's relationship, but I did feel like there could have been a bit more of the romance that was shown to the reader. I felt like a lot of their relationship happened before the book even started, and I'm not really a fan of being told how someone feels instead of being shown...I like to see it all, I may be a bit voyeuristic in that way, but anyway, I just felt like so much of the buildup for their relationship was skimmed over, and I wish we could have seen a bit more of it, or maybe had a bit more from Kiersten at least about her feelings. Garrett's were pretty clear, but Kiersten's kinda popped up outta nowhere! :P
Even though I felt like we could have seen a bit more of their relationship, I did really love what was there. I loved seeing Kiersten finally open up to her feelings, and I just really enjoyed Garrett...he could've fought a bit harder at times, but considering he kept getting rejected, I didn't really blame his reluctance either. All in all though, I'm so glad how Play Me turned out and really enjoyed Kiersten and Garrett's story! :D
Overall, I thought that Play Me was a short, but sweet romance with characters that I definitely cared about. I'd recommend this one to fans of contemporary romance with relationships that develop in pretty unconventional ways. ;D
*This review also appears on my blog and my other social media accounts.
*I was provided with an ebook by the publisher for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This is the first book I've read in the Take a Chance series, so I'm not sure if I might have missed a bit of the groundwork that set the stage for Kiersten and Garrett's relationship, but I did feel like there could have been a bit more of the romance that was shown to the reader. I felt like a lot of their relationship happened before the book even started, and I'm not really a fan of being told how someone feels instead of being shown...I like to see it all, I may be a bit voyeuristic in that way, but anyway, I just felt like so much of the buildup for their relationship was skimmed over, and I wish we could have seen a bit more of it, or maybe had a bit more from Kiersten at least about her feelings. Garrett's were pretty clear, but Kiersten's kinda popped up outta nowhere! :P
Even though I felt like we could have seen a bit more of their relationship, I did really love what was there. I loved seeing Kiersten finally open up to her feelings, and I just really enjoyed Garrett...he could've fought a bit harder at times, but considering he kept getting rejected, I didn't really blame his reluctance either. All in all though, I'm so glad how Play Me turned out and really enjoyed Kiersten and Garrett's story! :D
Overall, I thought that Play Me was a short, but sweet romance with characters that I definitely cared about. I'd recommend this one to fans of contemporary romance with relationships that develop in pretty unconventional ways. ;D
*This review also appears on my blog and my other social media accounts.
*I was provided with an ebook by the publisher for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 8, 2013
Play Me (Take a Chance #3) by Diane Albert’s
I’ve read the first book in this series Try Me and it was quite enjoyable, so of course when I seen the blog tour for Play Me I signed up immediately. Play me is a short, sexy, enjoyable read. The cover is fantastic.
Diane Albert’s writing is great, her words flow well, and the characters are relatable and realistic. It’s a great book when you have an hour or two to lose yourself in a story.
Play Me is a story about two people Garrett and Kiersten who have been friends for years, Garrett actually had a crush on Kiersten all through high school. Garrett’s best friend is Kiersten brother and he sees right through Garrett every time he denies he still has a crush on his sister.
Kiersten loves having Garrett as one of her close friends, but she has been hurt and won’t ever trust a man again. Knowing she has to protect her heart and her son’s this time around she is sure she will never want a relationship with a man any time soon.
On the day she was supposed to getting married Kiersten makes a play on Garrett thinking he doesn’t want a relationship and probably be game for a little fun for one night. Boy was she wrong.
Things from here get bad to worse, and then through in a surprize, will Garrett every be able to see Kiersten as a friend again and will Kiersten realize that she is made a huge mistake? You just have to pick up a copy of Play Me and find out what happens for yourself.
Diane Albert’s has written another fantastic story and I cannot wait to read more from her.
I have rated Play Me a 4 star rating and recommend to everyone and anyone who loves the adult romance genre.
I’ve read the first book in this series Try Me and it was quite enjoyable, so of course when I seen the blog tour for Play Me I signed up immediately. Play me is a short, sexy, enjoyable read. The cover is fantastic.
Diane Albert’s writing is great, her words flow well, and the characters are relatable and realistic. It’s a great book when you have an hour or two to lose yourself in a story.
Play Me is a story about two people Garrett and Kiersten who have been friends for years, Garrett actually had a crush on Kiersten all through high school. Garrett’s best friend is Kiersten brother and he sees right through Garrett every time he denies he still has a crush on his sister.
Kiersten loves having Garrett as one of her close friends, but she has been hurt and won’t ever trust a man again. Knowing she has to protect her heart and her son’s this time around she is sure she will never want a relationship with a man any time soon.
On the day she was supposed to getting married Kiersten makes a play on Garrett thinking he doesn’t want a relationship and probably be game for a little fun for one night. Boy was she wrong.
Things from here get bad to worse, and then through in a surprize, will Garrett every be able to see Kiersten as a friend again and will Kiersten realize that she is made a huge mistake? You just have to pick up a copy of Play Me and find out what happens for yourself.
Diane Albert’s has written another fantastic story and I cannot wait to read more from her.
I have rated Play Me a 4 star rating and recommend to everyone and anyone who loves the adult romance genre.
August 3, 2013
I won't lie, the cover sold me. I love sports related romances. While this one isn't heavy into the sports aspect of the story, I was happy with it. I seem to be reading quite a few friends to lovers kind of books lately. I love these kind of stories.
Garrett has had a crush on his best friend's sister for years, but he never thought he stood a chance to actually be with her. Well, after one of her son/nephew's basketball game (Garrett is the coach), he heads over to her place for their usual hang out nights. He's taken by surprise when Kiersten basically attacks him. The result: one bundle of joy on it's way.
Garrett is a good guy, so naturally he wants to take care of her and the baby. He wants to make it a permanent situation. Kiersten, however, is having some doubts. Sure, she cares for Garrett. There's no doubt about it, but she's been burned by an ex in the past and she's not quite sure she wants to take the chance not only with her heart, but her son's too. Ultimately, Garrett convinces Kiersten to let him move in and their chemistry takes hold of the situation.
Overall, I really liked it. It's was a quick, sexy and sweet read for me. The sexy parts were steamy enough to make my heart beat a little faster and two people followed their hearts and fell in love. What more could I need? I didn't realize this was a series when I took it for review, but I'll definitely be checking out the other books in the series. If you're looking for short, sweet, but also has a little bit of sexy...check this out!
Garrett has had a crush on his best friend's sister for years, but he never thought he stood a chance to actually be with her. Well, after one of her son/nephew's basketball game (Garrett is the coach), he heads over to her place for their usual hang out nights. He's taken by surprise when Kiersten basically attacks him. The result: one bundle of joy on it's way.
Garrett is a good guy, so naturally he wants to take care of her and the baby. He wants to make it a permanent situation. Kiersten, however, is having some doubts. Sure, she cares for Garrett. There's no doubt about it, but she's been burned by an ex in the past and she's not quite sure she wants to take the chance not only with her heart, but her son's too. Ultimately, Garrett convinces Kiersten to let him move in and their chemistry takes hold of the situation.
Overall, I really liked it. It's was a quick, sexy and sweet read for me. The sexy parts were steamy enough to make my heart beat a little faster and two people followed their hearts and fell in love. What more could I need? I didn't realize this was a series when I took it for review, but I'll definitely be checking out the other books in the series. If you're looking for short, sweet, but also has a little bit of sexy...check this out!
August 9, 2013
Play Me is a sweet story about finding love and trusting the person you love is going to be there no matter what. Diane Alberts shows us that when you take that chance and believe in love, magic happens.
Kiersten Worth doesn't believe in forever. She gave it a chance but walked in on her fiance and his secretary hmmmm taking dictation.. and it didn't break her heart it provides that she was right. But on the night that was supposed to be her wedding night she didn't want to be alone. So she invites her son's basketball coach, the one man who has always been there for her, in for a night of revenge sex (too bad she doesn't bother telling him).
Garrett Kelly has been crazy about Kiersten for as long as he could remember. He knows she doesn't return his feelings but when she asks him in for the night he thinks maybe they finally have a chance.
One night does not forever make but it can make a baby.. Kiersten and Jackson have to find a way to create a family. Knowing Kiersten as well as he does Jackson does some fancy footwork to get her to take a chance.
Honestly, I was not enamored with Kiersten. I found her to be selfish and mean and would have been perfectly happy if she didn't get her HEA. My total and complete dislike of her pretty much ruined what could have been a sweet story.
The book was well written with some interesting relationship dynamics and shows plenty of promise...had Kiersten been just a bit more likeable I would have truly enjoyed it.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Play Me provided by netgalley
Kiersten Worth doesn't believe in forever. She gave it a chance but walked in on her fiance and his secretary hmmmm taking dictation.. and it didn't break her heart it provides that she was right. But on the night that was supposed to be her wedding night she didn't want to be alone. So she invites her son's basketball coach, the one man who has always been there for her, in for a night of revenge sex (too bad she doesn't bother telling him).
Garrett Kelly has been crazy about Kiersten for as long as he could remember. He knows she doesn't return his feelings but when she asks him in for the night he thinks maybe they finally have a chance.
One night does not forever make but it can make a baby.. Kiersten and Jackson have to find a way to create a family. Knowing Kiersten as well as he does Jackson does some fancy footwork to get her to take a chance.
Honestly, I was not enamored with Kiersten. I found her to be selfish and mean and would have been perfectly happy if she didn't get her HEA. My total and complete dislike of her pretty much ruined what could have been a sweet story.
The book was well written with some interesting relationship dynamics and shows plenty of promise...had Kiersten been just a bit more likeable I would have truly enjoyed it.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Play Me provided by netgalley
August 15, 2013
Kiersten and Garrett have been friends for years. Garrett is Kiersten’s brother’s best friend. Garrett has feelings for Kiersten, but kept them to himself to not to ruin two friendships. One day Kiersten sees Garrett in a new light and asks him to help take away the pain; one night with no strings, no one has to know.
I liked Garrett and Kiersten but felt I didn't get to know them deeply in this book. They were each likable characters but I didn’t feel a deeper connection to them. Garrett has loved Kiersten for years - but I didn't really feel it; and Kiersten has a deep commitment phobia and the reason - while valid didn't seem like it warranted her to be that adamant about no relationships. I did enjoy the interaction with Chris, Kiersten’s nephew. I thought he was one of the more stand out characters. Best dialogue in book came between Garrett and his bestfriend - Kiersten's brother.
I loved that basketball was featured in this book, but don’t shy away from reading it if you don’t like sports. Garrett is a basketball coach, and plays basketball but there is not strategy or basketball terms outside of “three point” mentioned. This is a very quick read, as I read it in an afternoon. It is part of a series, but I found no part that was difficult to follow because I had not read another books. My first book by this author – if she writes a book about Kiersten’s brother Mike I would definitely read it.
I received this book from NetGalley for my honest review.
July 31, 2013
Kiersten Worth has always managed to roll with the punches life threw at her. Raising her nephew as her own, Kiersten had it all until her ex broke her heart. Now on the eve of her wedding day, Kiersten wants to let loose carefully selecting her closest friend and her son's basketball coach, Garrett Kelly,
Garrett has been head over heels for Kiersten since high school, but it never led anywhere. Now that he has the chance, he falls even deeper for Kiersten, but his hopes quickly diminish when he realizes she only wanted him for the one night event. What neither expected was a baby in the mix and Garrett doesn't plan to be an absent father, even if Kiersten continues to guard her heart and keep Garrett at a distance.
I felt for Garrett, Kiersten has some issues she is trying to work through and puts Garrett through the ringer. Entertaining story, would check out the other books in the series for sure.
Garrett has been head over heels for Kiersten since high school, but it never led anywhere. Now that he has the chance, he falls even deeper for Kiersten, but his hopes quickly diminish when he realizes she only wanted him for the one night event. What neither expected was a baby in the mix and Garrett doesn't plan to be an absent father, even if Kiersten continues to guard her heart and keep Garrett at a distance.
I felt for Garrett, Kiersten has some issues she is trying to work through and puts Garrett through the ringer. Entertaining story, would check out the other books in the series for sure.
July 29, 2013
I won this book as an ARC and I read it very quickly. Let me just say I loved the book and I am a big fan of this series. If you have not read the first two in this series Try me and Love me, you really need to. Of the three guys in this series so far before reading this one was Thomas. But now I think Garrett is my favorite or a real close tie to Thomas. What I love about this men, is they are so caring and protective and really nice guys and very HOT men!! The characters are REAL and do not come across fake. I can not wait for the next story in this series. I like books that I really lose myself into and this series does that. Congrats Diane on another wonderful story. :)
August 2, 2015
Completely Horrible Heroine
Having parents with a bad relationship and being cheated on does not give you the excuse to be a horrible person and use and treat the person who loves you like dirt. Quite frankly I don't even understand why he loves her at all.
Having parents with a bad relationship and being cheated on does not give you the excuse to be a horrible person and use and treat the person who loves you like dirt. Quite frankly I don't even understand why he loves her at all.
August 3, 2013
3.5 stars. review maybe will come some time later... (Actually I don't think that I will write a review edited:1/9/13).
December 22, 2018
1. The setup of this romance was pretty laughable.
2. Kiersten was infuriating.
3. Garrett was such a sweetheart.
4. Brianna and Mike were great supporting cast.
5. It was kinda odd that Garrett's job as a teacher (Chris's in particular) was not explored much considering the worries they had about there being some kind of reaction.
6. Garrett, Brianna and Mike moved this from two to three stars.
2. Kiersten was infuriating.
3. Garrett was such a sweetheart.
4. Brianna and Mike were great supporting cast.
5. It was kinda odd that Garrett's job as a teacher (Chris's in particular) was not explored much considering the worries they had about there being some kind of reaction.
6. Garrett, Brianna and Mike moved this from two to three stars.
March 15, 2018
Kiersten, querida.
Si rechazas constantemente a alguien, admites que lo utilizaste, y lo lastimas, no puedes indignarte porque cuando cambias de opinión él no te cree.
Garrett deserves better.
Si rechazas constantemente a alguien, admites que lo utilizaste, y lo lastimas, no puedes indignarte porque cuando cambias de opinión él no te cree.
Garrett deserves better.
March 12, 2017
Me cargo la protagonista!!!!
September 29, 2017
Well written and a nice 'cosy' romance to fill in a few hours.
August 12, 2013
I would consider Play Me, given its length, asa short novel; It is the third story in the series "Take a Chance" by Diane Alberts. It is a contemporary romance novel, quite nice, pleasant and easy to read, great at this time of year, to spend a few hours immersed in reading.
Even the best-laid plans can go awry.
Single-mom Kiersten Worth knows a bottle of champagne and night of hot, no-strings-attached sex is the perfect solution to her jilted bride blues…and Garrett Kelly, long-time friend and her teenaged son’s sexy basketball coach, is just the stud for the job.
Garrett wants more from the elusive temptress than a casual affair, but he never expects it to come in the form of an unexpected pregnancy. When he proposes an unorthodox solution—move in and raise their baby together—Kiersten has to decide whether to let down her guard and open her heart to the man who secretly loved her for years, or risk losing his tender embrace for good.
If I had to think about a man as a "Prince charming" modern I would say that Garrett is your perfect guy. Beautiful, sexy, but also thoughtful, caring, loyal, faithful, and so on, he has the ability to say the right thing, that a woman would want to be told, at the right time. Not afraid to face up to his responsibilities and the consequences. And then, if I can say so say, between the sheets he is quite hot.
On the other hand Kiersten with her thousands of uncertainties, her push and pull because of her previous heartbreak, would test the patience of a saint, but that her way of being still puts more emphasis on Garrett.
The teenage son of Kiersten provides small pearls of wisdom as only know to do sometimes boys at that age, very cute.
The book is part of a series, but it is independent from the others and a one-shot.
I really liked this story by Diane Alberts and I'd lovet to read the two previous books as soon as possible.
Thank to Netgalley and Entangled Publishing LLC for the book.
Play me la considererei, vista la sua lunghezza, una short novel; è la terza storia nella serie Take a Chance di Diane Alberts. È un racconto romance contemporaneo molto carino, piacevole e veloce da leggere, l'ideale in questo periodo dell'anno, per passare qualche ora immersi nella lettura.
Anche il miglior piano programmato può andare male.
La madre single Kiersten Worth pensa che una bottiglia di champagne e una notte di sesso bollente, senza legami, siano la soluzione migliore per cancellare la sua tristezza di mancata futura sposa... e Garrett Kelly, suo amico di lunga data e sexy allenatore di basket del figlio adolescente, è la persona perfetta per realizzare il suo piano.
Garrett desidera di più della seducente tentazione di una notte di sesso casuale, ma non avrebbe mai pensato che gli si presentasse l'occasione giusta a causa di una gravidanza inaspettata. Quando propone una soluzione non ortodossa - trasferirsi da Kiersten e allevare il bambino insieme - la donna deve decidere se abbassare la guardia e aprire il suo cuore a quest'uomo, che l'ha segretamente amata per molti anni, oppure rischiare di perdere per sempre la dolcezza che le sa offrire tra le sue braccia.
Se dovessi pensare a un prototipo di "principe azzurro" moderno direi che Garrett è la sua incarnazione perfetta. Bello, sexy, ma anche premuroso, attento, leale, fedele e così via, ha la capacità di dire la cosa giusta, che una donna vorrebbe sentirsi dire, al momento giusto. Non ha paura di assumersi le sue responsabilità e affrontarne le conseguenze. E poi se proprio proprio vogliamo dire tra le lenzuola ha il suo bel perché.
Dal canto suo Kiersten con le sue mille incertezze, e tira e molla da cuore infranto, metterebbe alla prova la pazienza di un santo, ma questo suo modo di essere mette ancora più in risalto Garrett.
Il figlio adolescente di Kiersten fornisce delle piccole perle di saggezza, come solo sanno a fare volte i ragazzi a quell'età, adorabile.
Il libro fa parte di una serie, ma è indipendente dagli altri e autoconclusivo.
Mi è piaciuto molto questo racconto di Diane Alberts e conto di leggere anche i due libri precedenti non appena possibile.
Si ringraziano Netgalley e la Entangled Publishing LLC per il libro.
August 7, 2013
I'm a huge fan of Diane Alberts' Take a Chance series so I couldn't wait to read the latest instalment Play Me. Although there is a slight cross over of characters throughout this series each of the books work well as a stand alone story and is focused on a different couple. I've enjoyed each instalment though so it's definitely a series I'd recommend to contemporary romance fans.
Kiersten is Brianna's sister so we'd already met her in the previous story (Love Me) but we didn't know a great deal about her apart from the fact that she is a single mum who has raised her 13 year old nephew Chris ever since his parents were killed when he was a baby. Since the day her ex fiancé broke both their hearts by leaving her for another woman Kiersten has been determined to protect them both by staying away from men. But as the date of what should have been her wedding day approaches she decides she could use a little harmless distraction and she can't think of anyone more perfect than her close friend Garrett. Garrett has a reputation as a ladies man so Kiersten has no reason to believe that he will be interested in anything more than a one night stand but what she doesn't realise is that he has been in love with her since they were at high school. He is best friends with her brother Mike so never tried to make a move but he can't turn her away when she comes to him. Garrett is devastated when Kiersten walks away after their amazing night together but when he finds out the consequences of their night of passion he sets out to prove to her that they could have an amazing future together.
I have to admit that Kiersten wasn't my favourite heroine of this series, in fact there were quite a few times when I wanted to strangle her! I think the majority of us have had our hearts broken at some point in our lives so I could understand how hurt she was by her ex's betrayal but that didn't excuse the way she treated Garrett. He was so incredibly sweet and supportive and he literally put his life on hold to be there for both her and Chris in every possible way but she constantly snapped at him and accused at him of messing her around. Even when she found out how much she had hurt him with her behaviour she didn't really apologise to him but she still expected him to be at her beck and call. I have to admire her for the way she took on Chris and raised him as her own but I was so annoyed with her that I found it hard to see why Garrett was so determined to win her heart.
The thing that kept me reading in spite of Kiersten's behaviour was definitely Garrett. I think you can already guess I had a bit of a crush on him and he was definitely a fabulous, swoon worthy character. I loved the way he took time to bond with Chris and reassure him that he would always be around for him and his mother. I also admired his determination to win Kiersten around (even if she didn't deserve him!) and the way he was always there for her no matter how hard she made it for him. I have to mention how awesome Kiersten's brother Mike was in this story (& I was very happy to discover that he will be the hero of the next story!), there was a particular point where he gave her the reality check that she desperately needed and I found it much easier to connect with her character from then on. It took her a long time to realise what was staring her in the face but once she came to terms with the fact that Garrett was as trustworthy as they get she did make an effort to let him in.
As much as Kiersten wasn't my favourite heroine she did grow on me by the end of the story and the sexy hunk that is Garrett more than made up for her. Diane Alberts is one of my favourites when it comes to hot contemporary romances and Play Me didn't disappoint in that regard. I just hope she doesn't keep us waiting too long for Mike's story!
Kiersten is Brianna's sister so we'd already met her in the previous story (Love Me) but we didn't know a great deal about her apart from the fact that she is a single mum who has raised her 13 year old nephew Chris ever since his parents were killed when he was a baby. Since the day her ex fiancé broke both their hearts by leaving her for another woman Kiersten has been determined to protect them both by staying away from men. But as the date of what should have been her wedding day approaches she decides she could use a little harmless distraction and she can't think of anyone more perfect than her close friend Garrett. Garrett has a reputation as a ladies man so Kiersten has no reason to believe that he will be interested in anything more than a one night stand but what she doesn't realise is that he has been in love with her since they were at high school. He is best friends with her brother Mike so never tried to make a move but he can't turn her away when she comes to him. Garrett is devastated when Kiersten walks away after their amazing night together but when he finds out the consequences of their night of passion he sets out to prove to her that they could have an amazing future together.
I have to admit that Kiersten wasn't my favourite heroine of this series, in fact there were quite a few times when I wanted to strangle her! I think the majority of us have had our hearts broken at some point in our lives so I could understand how hurt she was by her ex's betrayal but that didn't excuse the way she treated Garrett. He was so incredibly sweet and supportive and he literally put his life on hold to be there for both her and Chris in every possible way but she constantly snapped at him and accused at him of messing her around. Even when she found out how much she had hurt him with her behaviour she didn't really apologise to him but she still expected him to be at her beck and call. I have to admire her for the way she took on Chris and raised him as her own but I was so annoyed with her that I found it hard to see why Garrett was so determined to win her heart.
The thing that kept me reading in spite of Kiersten's behaviour was definitely Garrett. I think you can already guess I had a bit of a crush on him and he was definitely a fabulous, swoon worthy character. I loved the way he took time to bond with Chris and reassure him that he would always be around for him and his mother. I also admired his determination to win Kiersten around (even if she didn't deserve him!) and the way he was always there for her no matter how hard she made it for him. I have to mention how awesome Kiersten's brother Mike was in this story (& I was very happy to discover that he will be the hero of the next story!), there was a particular point where he gave her the reality check that she desperately needed and I found it much easier to connect with her character from then on. It took her a long time to realise what was staring her in the face but once she came to terms with the fact that Garrett was as trustworthy as they get she did make an effort to let him in.
As much as Kiersten wasn't my favourite heroine she did grow on me by the end of the story and the sexy hunk that is Garrett more than made up for her. Diane Alberts is one of my favourites when it comes to hot contemporary romances and Play Me didn't disappoint in that regard. I just hope she doesn't keep us waiting too long for Mike's story!
July 25, 2013
Hot glances? Yes. Happily ever after? No. He was like her. Independent, Unattached, and content to stay that way.
Garrett has been friend-zoned by Kiersten for ten years. But one night changed it all. He has crushed on her for a long time and would love to give her more, but she has been broken and beat down by past relationships. And it is a little more complicated since he is best friends and coaches with her big brother and her son is on their basketball team.
Three months later, a little surprise gives him the "in" he needs to press his way into her life and home. He is determined to win her over and move in for the kill. But she has been burned too many times in the past and is guarded, terrified, and lacking trust.
Kiersten refused to even try relationships ever again. She was broken. Unfixable.
Garrett was the perfect guy. Anyone would be thrilled with him: he loves hard, loves her kid, is devoted, loyal, sexy, and sweet. But she is so skittish that she will not really give him a fighting chance to be more than friends. Their new living arrangements are awkward at best. She is so guarded and constantly pushes him away and hurts him, I really wanted to shake some sense into her. They have really hot chemistry. He totally adores her and would love to commit in all ways. But she creates barriers to keep him from getting too close. Her insecurities, trust issues, and their complicated life causes turmoil. They have serious issues with communication and admitting their true wants and feelings.
"If I can earn her trust...I can earn her love. I know it."~Garrett
"I think you underestimate her pain."~Mike
"And you underestimate my commitment...I won't give up until I win."~Garrett
He was like a knight hammering a door with a battering ram. The door would break eventually...and then what would happen? She would be completely vulnerable.
It was a roller coaster to figure out if these two could ever get on the same page at the same time. A constant battle of warring emotions and feelings and eventually someone has to give up the fight.
I liked her son Chris and her brother Mike. They were outspoken and did not hesitate to call foul on these two struggling friends, sometimes lovers, and partners. Heaven knows these two needed all the help they could get. For two people that had been friends for ten years, they sure could create some awkward, frustrating situations. And they had no clue what the other was really thinking. I was so glad she gave us both of their points of view.
It was a cute, sweet, fast novella but also had emotions and drama. It had enough details and I felt like it was a complete story despite it's shorter length. I was invested in these characters, their relationship, and family. I like Diane Alberts' writing style with humor and likable characters with good chemistry. It seems like Kiersten's brother Mike needs to the next man in this series. He is fighting the idea of love and really needs to fall. This is the third book in the Take a Chance series, but can easily be read as a stand alone story. The first book Try Me is about Erica and Jeremy, the second book Love Me is about Kiersten and Mike's other sister Brianna and Erica's brother Thomas. So each book is about a different couple but the couples are related in some way.
Thanks to Diane Alberts and Entangled Publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Will be posted at Reviews by Tammy and Kim . on release date of July 29, 2013.
Garrett has been friend-zoned by Kiersten for ten years. But one night changed it all. He has crushed on her for a long time and would love to give her more, but she has been broken and beat down by past relationships. And it is a little more complicated since he is best friends and coaches with her big brother and her son is on their basketball team.
Three months later, a little surprise gives him the "in" he needs to press his way into her life and home. He is determined to win her over and move in for the kill. But she has been burned too many times in the past and is guarded, terrified, and lacking trust.
Kiersten refused to even try relationships ever again. She was broken. Unfixable.
Garrett was the perfect guy. Anyone would be thrilled with him: he loves hard, loves her kid, is devoted, loyal, sexy, and sweet. But she is so skittish that she will not really give him a fighting chance to be more than friends. Their new living arrangements are awkward at best. She is so guarded and constantly pushes him away and hurts him, I really wanted to shake some sense into her. They have really hot chemistry. He totally adores her and would love to commit in all ways. But she creates barriers to keep him from getting too close. Her insecurities, trust issues, and their complicated life causes turmoil. They have serious issues with communication and admitting their true wants and feelings.
"If I can earn her trust...I can earn her love. I know it."~Garrett
"I think you underestimate her pain."~Mike
"And you underestimate my commitment...I won't give up until I win."~Garrett
He was like a knight hammering a door with a battering ram. The door would break eventually...and then what would happen? She would be completely vulnerable.
It was a roller coaster to figure out if these two could ever get on the same page at the same time. A constant battle of warring emotions and feelings and eventually someone has to give up the fight.
I liked her son Chris and her brother Mike. They were outspoken and did not hesitate to call foul on these two struggling friends, sometimes lovers, and partners. Heaven knows these two needed all the help they could get. For two people that had been friends for ten years, they sure could create some awkward, frustrating situations. And they had no clue what the other was really thinking. I was so glad she gave us both of their points of view.
It was a cute, sweet, fast novella but also had emotions and drama. It had enough details and I felt like it was a complete story despite it's shorter length. I was invested in these characters, their relationship, and family. I like Diane Alberts' writing style with humor and likable characters with good chemistry. It seems like Kiersten's brother Mike needs to the next man in this series. He is fighting the idea of love and really needs to fall. This is the third book in the Take a Chance series, but can easily be read as a stand alone story. The first book Try Me is about Erica and Jeremy, the second book Love Me is about Kiersten and Mike's other sister Brianna and Erica's brother Thomas. So each book is about a different couple but the couples are related in some way.
Thanks to Diane Alberts and Entangled Publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Will be posted at Reviews by Tammy and Kim . on release date of July 29, 2013.
December 15, 2014
I knew I wasn't going to like Play Me before I even started it. Not just because I didn't enjoy the previous two books, but because of the accidental pregnancy plot. However, I don't skip series books, so here I am. I did try to like it, but there were other problems I found with it aside from the pregnancy story. This time we're following Garrett and Kiersten, who is Brianna's sister from Love Me. It's the day that Kiersten should have been getting married, except that her fiance left her for his secretary. Now, she's out for revenge, so what better way to get it than by sleeping with her best friend whom her ex-fiance hated? Good plan, right? WRONG! Kiersten and Garrett share a night of passion and he think it's because she's finally ready for a relationship, but she admits it was for revenge. He gets upset, they don't talk for a few months, but when they finally do it's because she has to announce her pregnancy. She tries to give him an out, but Garrett wants this baby (and Kiersten) so he steps up. What follows is a lot of drama, naturally.
Play Me is chock full of high school-ish drama, which is normally entertaining. But when the participants are nearly thirty (or in their thirties, I don't even know) it's quite ridiculous. Garrett moves in with Kiersten with the understanding that they are not a couple, nor will they be. He's there for the baby and to be a father figure to her teenage son. Well, that seems like an okay plan on the surface, but it's even more stupid than her revenge sex plan. Garrett can't get into another serious relationship, because he can't leave her and the kids, and he's not allowed to have women over. He's going to be alone forever. Then of course she has the audacity to get pissed at him for being polite to other women, who he has no intention of being with, just because she's jealous, even though he has repeatedly told her he wants to be with her! Then she seduces him because her teenage son thinks this whole set up is dumb and wants them together, and she tells Garrett this. Is he happy? Hell no, because she's stupid! Of course, they get their happily ever after in the end, after she pisses him off some more by being crazy.
I also confused as heck about Kiersten, her pregnancy, and her teenage son, Chris. From the very beginning it's clear that Garrett knows more about pregnancy than she does. In fact, she knows nothing, and yet she has a son already? There's also many mentions of her ex and how he was suppose to be a father figure, but he left, so I assume he's not Chris's father. But there was no mention of who his father may be. Then finally there's some vague mention of a woman named Sue, who died, leaving Chris motherless. Okay, I suppose Kiersten adopted him, or took him in. But that would have been useful to know earlier on, since I was flabbergasted that Kiersten would know nothing about pregnancy despite being pregnant before. Clearly she has never been pregnant before, but I still had to wonder how she ended up with Chris. We find out in the next book that Chris is actually her nephew, and Sue was a sister who died.
Play Me was just frustrating and annoying on several levels. The supposed adults act like teenagers, and the only character who makes any sense is the teenager. Pregnancy plots are not for me at all, so keep that in mind. Also pregnancy sex is gross. I do not want to read about it, so I had to skim that chapter. I was just expecting something really steamy from this series, but that is not what's being served.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
Play Me is chock full of high school-ish drama, which is normally entertaining. But when the participants are nearly thirty (or in their thirties, I don't even know) it's quite ridiculous. Garrett moves in with Kiersten with the understanding that they are not a couple, nor will they be. He's there for the baby and to be a father figure to her teenage son. Well, that seems like an okay plan on the surface, but it's even more stupid than her revenge sex plan. Garrett can't get into another serious relationship, because he can't leave her and the kids, and he's not allowed to have women over. He's going to be alone forever. Then of course she has the audacity to get pissed at him for being polite to other women, who he has no intention of being with, just because she's jealous, even though he has repeatedly told her he wants to be with her! Then she seduces him because her teenage son thinks this whole set up is dumb and wants them together, and she tells Garrett this. Is he happy? Hell no, because she's stupid! Of course, they get their happily ever after in the end, after she pisses him off some more by being crazy.
I also confused as heck about Kiersten, her pregnancy, and her teenage son, Chris. From the very beginning it's clear that Garrett knows more about pregnancy than she does. In fact, she knows nothing, and yet she has a son already? There's also many mentions of her ex and how he was suppose to be a father figure, but he left, so I assume he's not Chris's father. But there was no mention of who his father may be. Then finally there's some vague mention of a woman named Sue, who died, leaving Chris motherless. Okay, I suppose Kiersten adopted him, or took him in. But that would have been useful to know earlier on, since I was flabbergasted that Kiersten would know nothing about pregnancy despite being pregnant before. Clearly she has never been pregnant before, but I still had to wonder how she ended up with Chris. We find out in the next book that Chris is actually her nephew, and Sue was a sister who died.
Play Me was just frustrating and annoying on several levels. The supposed adults act like teenagers, and the only character who makes any sense is the teenager. Pregnancy plots are not for me at all, so keep that in mind. Also pregnancy sex is gross. I do not want to read about it, so I had to skim that chapter. I was just expecting something really steamy from this series, but that is not what's being served.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
July 26, 2013
You can also find my review on my blog:
http://www.read-love-blog.com/2013/07...
Play Me is the third story in the Take a Chance Series by Diane Alberts. I have read, and enjoyed, the first two and was really looking forward to this story after just looking at the cover. Well, Diane has done it again…..this story rocked!
Kiersten Worth was not supposed to be spending this day alone. It was supposed to be her wedding day, but thanks to a cheating fiancé, there will be no wedding bells for her. Luckily, she has been spending time with Garrett, a childhood friend of her and her brother and her son’s basketball coach. She’s looking forward to seeing him tonight for one of their casual chill-on-the-couch-with-a-movie nights when she decides to hatch a plan to get her ex out of her head, even if just for one night. She knows Garrett has had a crush on her for years and tonight she plans on taking advantage of that. Yep, hot and sexy Garrett is just the man to get the job done. After her itch is scratched, surely they will be able to go back to their carefree relationship as friends….until the unexpected happens.
Garrett has watched Kiersten from across the gym floor at basketball games and dreamed of what it would be like to have more with her….more than just a close friend. But he knows that’s just a fantasy. He’s best friends with her brother and her son’s basketball coach and that’s all he will ever be to her. Imagine his surprise when he heads to her house for a typical night in and gets way more than what he’s ever imagined.
Here’s the thing with those friendly hook-ups….most of the time they just don’t work. The awkwardness that follows can ruin the best of friendships and it just may ruin Garrett and Kiersten’s. Fate won’t let that happen though and when Kiersten finds out she’s pregnant, Garrett comes up with a plan to make things work for all of them…..hopefully.
What a great read this was. High emotion and intense at times but with such caring and love interspersed throughout it gave the story great balance. Kiersten has been hurt and just can’t shake it. I can’t blame her, really. She doesn’t want to want Garrett and tries to push him away at every turn because she thinks it’s the best way to keep what’s left of her heart safe. Lucky for her Garrett is focused and headstrong and won’t give up without a fight! Damn, I do love me some Garrett! He’s loyal, trustworthy, reliable and damn sexy with a huge heart. He’s not ready to give up on Kiersten or their growing family. They have a rough go of things and have to really work through some major issues. I will admit I wanted to shake Kiersten a few times while reading and tell her to grab Garrett before it’s too late but if you know me, you know I love characters that get me to feel! Oh, and the chemistry between them and their schmexy scenes are positively delicious! I was fanning myself more than a few times…..yum!
If you’re looking for a yummy, heartwarming and entertaining read, I say get Play Me on your to-read list! This is a series I will always look forward to seeing more from. Thank you, Diane, for another fabulous story!
http://www.read-love-blog.com/2013/07...
Play Me is the third story in the Take a Chance Series by Diane Alberts. I have read, and enjoyed, the first two and was really looking forward to this story after just looking at the cover. Well, Diane has done it again…..this story rocked!
Kiersten Worth was not supposed to be spending this day alone. It was supposed to be her wedding day, but thanks to a cheating fiancé, there will be no wedding bells for her. Luckily, she has been spending time with Garrett, a childhood friend of her and her brother and her son’s basketball coach. She’s looking forward to seeing him tonight for one of their casual chill-on-the-couch-with-a-movie nights when she decides to hatch a plan to get her ex out of her head, even if just for one night. She knows Garrett has had a crush on her for years and tonight she plans on taking advantage of that. Yep, hot and sexy Garrett is just the man to get the job done. After her itch is scratched, surely they will be able to go back to their carefree relationship as friends….until the unexpected happens.
Garrett has watched Kiersten from across the gym floor at basketball games and dreamed of what it would be like to have more with her….more than just a close friend. But he knows that’s just a fantasy. He’s best friends with her brother and her son’s basketball coach and that’s all he will ever be to her. Imagine his surprise when he heads to her house for a typical night in and gets way more than what he’s ever imagined.
Here’s the thing with those friendly hook-ups….most of the time they just don’t work. The awkwardness that follows can ruin the best of friendships and it just may ruin Garrett and Kiersten’s. Fate won’t let that happen though and when Kiersten finds out she’s pregnant, Garrett comes up with a plan to make things work for all of them…..hopefully.
What a great read this was. High emotion and intense at times but with such caring and love interspersed throughout it gave the story great balance. Kiersten has been hurt and just can’t shake it. I can’t blame her, really. She doesn’t want to want Garrett and tries to push him away at every turn because she thinks it’s the best way to keep what’s left of her heart safe. Lucky for her Garrett is focused and headstrong and won’t give up without a fight! Damn, I do love me some Garrett! He’s loyal, trustworthy, reliable and damn sexy with a huge heart. He’s not ready to give up on Kiersten or their growing family. They have a rough go of things and have to really work through some major issues. I will admit I wanted to shake Kiersten a few times while reading and tell her to grab Garrett before it’s too late but if you know me, you know I love characters that get me to feel! Oh, and the chemistry between them and their schmexy scenes are positively delicious! I was fanning myself more than a few times…..yum!
If you’re looking for a yummy, heartwarming and entertaining read, I say get Play Me on your to-read list! This is a series I will always look forward to seeing more from. Thank you, Diane, for another fabulous story!
July 22, 2013
http://ripeforreader.blogspot.ca/2013...
When single mom, Kiersten Worth caught her fiancée banging his secretary a year ago, she decided right there and then, that love and relationships were just not her thing. The hurt and the anger from giving your love and trust and having it thrown back in your face, is just not worth the risk. To mark the one year anniversary of what should have been the happiest day of her life, she is planning to let loose with some no holds barred sex. A one night event with no consequences or strings. And she knows just the guy to let loose with!!!
Garrett Kelly has known the Worth family since they were all in high school. Mike and he are best buds and coach the basketball team together, and Kiersten's son Chris is one of their top players. Garrett and Kiersten have also remained good friends over the years, although Garrett has carried a silent torch for Kiersten for many years now.
When Kiersten comes on to Garrett one night, he can barely believe his luck and although he asks her if she is sure, he doesn't need much convincing for the hot night she has in mind. When he finds out he was only used for a one-night release, and nothing more, he is pretty disappointed and has a hard time turning back the clock to 'just friends'. So he takes a step back from Kiersten altogether.
When after three months of friendly nods and shy hellos, Kiersten suddenly shows up at his house to announce they are pregnant, he quickly gets over the initial shock and finds himself immediately wanting to 'man up' to the task of fatherhood. He makes the rather unusual suggestion to live and raise the baby, and Kiersten's son Chris, together as a family, but not as a couple.
Kiersten initially objects, but when she sees how sincere Garrett is in wanting to be involved in his child's life and after having worked out some of the logistics, she gives in. Now if only she could let go of the fear of giving her heart again.
****
A lovely story of friendship turned to love, a lesson in how to handle responsibilities and a relationship that packs some heat!!!
I loved the characters in the story, although I have to say I had a hard time understanding some of Kiersten's logic. Garret is her good friend, they already have a trust-based relationship, he already is in her son's life as a coach, as the friend of his mother......the move from there would not be a big one. I do like that she is cautious though, she should be, with a child in her care.
Garrett makes very mature moves, he seems very aware of his needs and those of people around him. He doesn't short sell himself and insists he either gets all of Kiersten or he wants nothing at all, he won't settle, and he won't let her settle for the sake of others either. I love that. He deals with the 'now' and trusts he will be able to deal with the 'later' as it comes, and that's a healthy attitude.
A terrific, well-written, mellow and seductive story of familiarity turned to love.
**ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Entangled Publishing in return for an honest review.**
When single mom, Kiersten Worth caught her fiancée banging his secretary a year ago, she decided right there and then, that love and relationships were just not her thing. The hurt and the anger from giving your love and trust and having it thrown back in your face, is just not worth the risk. To mark the one year anniversary of what should have been the happiest day of her life, she is planning to let loose with some no holds barred sex. A one night event with no consequences or strings. And she knows just the guy to let loose with!!!
Garrett Kelly has known the Worth family since they were all in high school. Mike and he are best buds and coach the basketball team together, and Kiersten's son Chris is one of their top players. Garrett and Kiersten have also remained good friends over the years, although Garrett has carried a silent torch for Kiersten for many years now.
When Kiersten comes on to Garrett one night, he can barely believe his luck and although he asks her if she is sure, he doesn't need much convincing for the hot night she has in mind. When he finds out he was only used for a one-night release, and nothing more, he is pretty disappointed and has a hard time turning back the clock to 'just friends'. So he takes a step back from Kiersten altogether.
When after three months of friendly nods and shy hellos, Kiersten suddenly shows up at his house to announce they are pregnant, he quickly gets over the initial shock and finds himself immediately wanting to 'man up' to the task of fatherhood. He makes the rather unusual suggestion to live and raise the baby, and Kiersten's son Chris, together as a family, but not as a couple.
Kiersten initially objects, but when she sees how sincere Garrett is in wanting to be involved in his child's life and after having worked out some of the logistics, she gives in. Now if only she could let go of the fear of giving her heart again.
****
A lovely story of friendship turned to love, a lesson in how to handle responsibilities and a relationship that packs some heat!!!
I loved the characters in the story, although I have to say I had a hard time understanding some of Kiersten's logic. Garret is her good friend, they already have a trust-based relationship, he already is in her son's life as a coach, as the friend of his mother......the move from there would not be a big one. I do like that she is cautious though, she should be, with a child in her care.
Garrett makes very mature moves, he seems very aware of his needs and those of people around him. He doesn't short sell himself and insists he either gets all of Kiersten or he wants nothing at all, he won't settle, and he won't let her settle for the sake of others either. I love that. He deals with the 'now' and trusts he will be able to deal with the 'later' as it comes, and that's a healthy attitude.
A terrific, well-written, mellow and seductive story of familiarity turned to love.
**ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Entangled Publishing in return for an honest review.**
August 11, 2013
I really wanted to love this book. Not only was the cover very appealing that I still find myself ogling it whenever I open the book's page, but the plot was also very promising.
A friends to lovers story between Garrett and Kiersten who've known each other since high school. Garrett is now the middle school basketball coach to Kiersten's young nephew, and pretending he isn't lusting after her, while Kiersten keeps him strictly friend-zoned while she's recovering from a bad break up where her fiancee cheated on her. Their dynamic has a drastic change, however, when Kiersten decides she's had enough of being single and what intended as a one night stand turns into a lifelong responsibility.
I have an attraction towards stories that involve children, or situations where the couple faces an unexpected pregnancy, so this plot, along with the friends to lovers storyline, was an instant eye catcher for me. But in the end, I found it lacked a certain depth, a connection between me and the characters. From the first page to the last, I couldn't find a way to sympathize with either the hero or the heroine. We ran headlong into their story, and I didn't know any more about them in the end than I did at the start.
Kiersten, I'm sad to say, wasn't a heroine I liked very much. She had been through a lot, she had lost a sister whose son she had been taking care of ever since, and very recently her fiancee cheated on her. I know break ups can be a pain, I can especially understand any trust issues after a cheating partner, but I felt like her situation was a little dramatized. Now, I don't have a teenage son, so I wouldn't know the kind of attention to be paid in relationships considering the child, but I really thought it was more about Kiersten's own trust issues rather than her responsibility for her nephew. She kept throwing her nephew as an excuse not to engage in anything more than a night, but it didn't convince me. All through the book she went back and forth with her feelings and insecurities that it got tiring after a while. Hers wasn't the kind of overcoming problems story, it felt more like mood swings.
Garrett, again I'm sad to say, didn't score any better in my hero meter either. He had no baggage other than being secretly in love with Kiersten, and even though it's no reason to like him any less, he seemed to have no other level. He was a middle school basketball coach and math teacher yet we've seen no other aspect of his life. He was all for Kiersten, and though I love a devoted man, it would've been nice to see some other, not Kiersten related, side of him.
The romance wasn't much convincing either in my opinion. I just couldn't see the spark between the characters, except for in the bedroom, but since I couldn't see Kiersten's character healing, I couldn't make the leap from their lust to their love with them.
A promising plot that, for me, lacked any buildup, with characters whose struggle I couldn't identify or connect with, this book wasn't as good as I wished it to be.
A friends to lovers story between Garrett and Kiersten who've known each other since high school. Garrett is now the middle school basketball coach to Kiersten's young nephew, and pretending he isn't lusting after her, while Kiersten keeps him strictly friend-zoned while she's recovering from a bad break up where her fiancee cheated on her. Their dynamic has a drastic change, however, when Kiersten decides she's had enough of being single and what intended as a one night stand turns into a lifelong responsibility.
I have an attraction towards stories that involve children, or situations where the couple faces an unexpected pregnancy, so this plot, along with the friends to lovers storyline, was an instant eye catcher for me. But in the end, I found it lacked a certain depth, a connection between me and the characters. From the first page to the last, I couldn't find a way to sympathize with either the hero or the heroine. We ran headlong into their story, and I didn't know any more about them in the end than I did at the start.
Kiersten, I'm sad to say, wasn't a heroine I liked very much. She had been through a lot, she had lost a sister whose son she had been taking care of ever since, and very recently her fiancee cheated on her. I know break ups can be a pain, I can especially understand any trust issues after a cheating partner, but I felt like her situation was a little dramatized. Now, I don't have a teenage son, so I wouldn't know the kind of attention to be paid in relationships considering the child, but I really thought it was more about Kiersten's own trust issues rather than her responsibility for her nephew. She kept throwing her nephew as an excuse not to engage in anything more than a night, but it didn't convince me. All through the book she went back and forth with her feelings and insecurities that it got tiring after a while. Hers wasn't the kind of overcoming problems story, it felt more like mood swings.
Garrett, again I'm sad to say, didn't score any better in my hero meter either. He had no baggage other than being secretly in love with Kiersten, and even though it's no reason to like him any less, he seemed to have no other level. He was a middle school basketball coach and math teacher yet we've seen no other aspect of his life. He was all for Kiersten, and though I love a devoted man, it would've been nice to see some other, not Kiersten related, side of him.
The romance wasn't much convincing either in my opinion. I just couldn't see the spark between the characters, except for in the bedroom, but since I couldn't see Kiersten's character healing, I couldn't make the leap from their lust to their love with them.
A promising plot that, for me, lacked any buildup, with characters whose struggle I couldn't identify or connect with, this book wasn't as good as I wished it to be.
July 31, 2013
Title: Play Me
Series: A Take A Chance Novel, Book #3
Author: Diane Alberts
Genre: Romance
Blurb: Even the best-laid plans can go awry.
Single-mom Kiersten Worth knows a bottle of champagne and night of hot, no-strings-attached sex is the perfect solution to her jilted bride blues…and Garrett Kelly, long-time friend and her teenaged son’s sexy basketball coach, is just the stud for the job.
Garrett wants more from the elusive temptress than a casual affair, but he never expects it to come in the form of an unexpected pregnancy. When he proposes an unorthodox solution—move in and raise their baby together—Kiersten has to decide whether to let down her guard and open her heart to the man who secretly loved her for years, or risk losing his tender embrace for good.
Thoughts: Entertaining is the best word to describe this book. From page one, it captures your attention and holds it throughout the course of the book. I have always enjoyed childhood crush stories, particularly when one of them ones up in the "friend zone" and is so frustrated they can't see straight. In this case, that is Garrett. He's had a crush on Kiersten for forever - and thought he had managed to get over the fact that he would never get her to see him as anything more. He had even listed in his head all these great reasons why that was a good thing. But the moment Kiersten decides to turn the tables - all his reasons just shot out the window....and in less than a heartbeat they found themselves in bed together in a night neither one of them would forget!
Kierstan didn't want a relationship - she just wanted sex! She never planned for anything more. But when Garrett makes it plain that he wants more - and in fact is not willing to settle for anything less - their time together is over even before it's begun. But fate has other plans - and those plans give Garrett another shot at winning the girl of his dreams. So can he talk into giving him a chance - and make their one night last forever?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were really well-written and likeable. There were moments where you were really frustrated with Kierstan, but you could really see where she was coming from, and why she felt the way she did. And Garrett...WOW!...he was so sexy yet sweet....and when he exposed how vulnerable he felt at times, you just really felt sorry for him and wanted to soothe all his aches away....!
You can't go wrong reading this book. Even though it is book three in a series, the series seems to involve more around a theme rather than the characters, so the book is more stand alone. You don't feel like you're missing anything when you read it. Although I do hope that changes, and that Mike (Garrett;s best friend and Kierstan's brother) gets his own book!
Rate: A
Review By: Sarah
Check out more of our great reviews at http://www.thebookreadinggirls.com
Series: A Take A Chance Novel, Book #3
Author: Diane Alberts
Genre: Romance
Blurb: Even the best-laid plans can go awry.
Single-mom Kiersten Worth knows a bottle of champagne and night of hot, no-strings-attached sex is the perfect solution to her jilted bride blues…and Garrett Kelly, long-time friend and her teenaged son’s sexy basketball coach, is just the stud for the job.
Garrett wants more from the elusive temptress than a casual affair, but he never expects it to come in the form of an unexpected pregnancy. When he proposes an unorthodox solution—move in and raise their baby together—Kiersten has to decide whether to let down her guard and open her heart to the man who secretly loved her for years, or risk losing his tender embrace for good.
Thoughts: Entertaining is the best word to describe this book. From page one, it captures your attention and holds it throughout the course of the book. I have always enjoyed childhood crush stories, particularly when one of them ones up in the "friend zone" and is so frustrated they can't see straight. In this case, that is Garrett. He's had a crush on Kiersten for forever - and thought he had managed to get over the fact that he would never get her to see him as anything more. He had even listed in his head all these great reasons why that was a good thing. But the moment Kiersten decides to turn the tables - all his reasons just shot out the window....and in less than a heartbeat they found themselves in bed together in a night neither one of them would forget!
Kierstan didn't want a relationship - she just wanted sex! She never planned for anything more. But when Garrett makes it plain that he wants more - and in fact is not willing to settle for anything less - their time together is over even before it's begun. But fate has other plans - and those plans give Garrett another shot at winning the girl of his dreams. So can he talk into giving him a chance - and make their one night last forever?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were really well-written and likeable. There were moments where you were really frustrated with Kierstan, but you could really see where she was coming from, and why she felt the way she did. And Garrett...WOW!...he was so sexy yet sweet....and when he exposed how vulnerable he felt at times, you just really felt sorry for him and wanted to soothe all his aches away....!
You can't go wrong reading this book. Even though it is book three in a series, the series seems to involve more around a theme rather than the characters, so the book is more stand alone. You don't feel like you're missing anything when you read it. Although I do hope that changes, and that Mike (Garrett;s best friend and Kierstan's brother) gets his own book!
Rate: A
Review By: Sarah
Check out more of our great reviews at http://www.thebookreadinggirls.com
August 28, 2013
Single-mom Kiersten Worth finally puts the moves on her long time friend Garrett Kelly for a one night stand. The attraction between the two has been very mutual, but neither of them have acted upon it. Garrett wants more, but doesn't push Kiersten mostly because of the fact that her son is on his basketball team and he's best friends with her brother, Mike. Kiersten's plan hits a hitch when she ends up pregnant and guess what? Garrett is *gasp* an honorable man.
Though the story is the third in the "Take a Chance" series, each of them can be read independently. Kiersten and Mike are the siblings of Brianna from Love Me, but other than that, not much is really needed to be known.
I loved the sense of humor between Garrett and Mike. They seemed like two real guys that would be arguing over their love lives. Though it does seem that reading Play Me will help with reading the next installment, Take Me, which features Mike finding his love. Or at least you get more into Mike's head before his actual book, which isn't a bad thing either way.
"What did she do to you know?"
Garrett closed his eyes. "She didn't do anything at all."
"Yeah, okay. And I'm Mother Teresa."
"Hey, nice to meet you," Garrett said, holding out his hand. "I admire your work."
Mike slapped his hand away. "Fuck off. I'm not holding your hand. People will think we're together."
"Please. You'd be lucky to be here with me."
There were times when I wanted to flat out smack Kiersten and I had to let Diane Alberts know that I had never wanted to smack a pregnant woman before. Kiersten was just so damn stubborn!
But isn't that a good thing though? You know, when an author makes you feel shit with their words? Good or bad, that's what Alberts did. I laughed at the guys zingers and got made at Kiersten for not talking to Garrett and admitting to her feelings.
Of all things, it was Chris, Kiersten's nephew who she's raising as her own, that said what I really wanted to say to these two characters:
"You two are confusing. I'm gonna go watch How I Met Your Mother, and then take a shower." He motioned between them with his finger. "You two need to get your act together."
Okay, well, minus the stuff about that specific television show. I would've picked The Big Bang Theory instead.
If you're looking for a quick, light-hearted romantic read with a side of funny, I highly recommend Play Me and the rest of the "Take a Chance" series.
Though the story is the third in the "Take a Chance" series, each of them can be read independently. Kiersten and Mike are the siblings of Brianna from Love Me, but other than that, not much is really needed to be known.
I loved the sense of humor between Garrett and Mike. They seemed like two real guys that would be arguing over their love lives. Though it does seem that reading Play Me will help with reading the next installment, Take Me, which features Mike finding his love. Or at least you get more into Mike's head before his actual book, which isn't a bad thing either way.
"What did she do to you know?"
Garrett closed his eyes. "She didn't do anything at all."
"Yeah, okay. And I'm Mother Teresa."
"Hey, nice to meet you," Garrett said, holding out his hand. "I admire your work."
Mike slapped his hand away. "Fuck off. I'm not holding your hand. People will think we're together."
"Please. You'd be lucky to be here with me."
There were times when I wanted to flat out smack Kiersten and I had to let Diane Alberts know that I had never wanted to smack a pregnant woman before. Kiersten was just so damn stubborn!
But isn't that a good thing though? You know, when an author makes you feel shit with their words? Good or bad, that's what Alberts did. I laughed at the guys zingers and got made at Kiersten for not talking to Garrett and admitting to her feelings.
Of all things, it was Chris, Kiersten's nephew who she's raising as her own, that said what I really wanted to say to these two characters:
"You two are confusing. I'm gonna go watch How I Met Your Mother, and then take a shower." He motioned between them with his finger. "You two need to get your act together."
Okay, well, minus the stuff about that specific television show. I would've picked The Big Bang Theory instead.
If you're looking for a quick, light-hearted romantic read with a side of funny, I highly recommend Play Me and the rest of the "Take a Chance" series.
December 11, 2013
As reviewed by Autumn on fic-talk.com
Single-mom Kiersten Worth finally puts the moves on her long time friend Garrett Kelly for a one night stand. The attraction between the two has been very mutual, but neither of them have acted upon it. Garrett wants more, but doesn't push Kiersten mostly because of the fact that her son is on his basketball team and he's best friends with her brother, Mike. Kiersten's plan hits a hitch when she ends up pregnant and guess what? Garrett is *gasp* an honorable man.
Though the story is the third in the "Take a Chance" series, each of them can be read independently. Kiersten and Mike are the siblings of Brianna from Love Me, but other than that, not much is really needed to be known.
I loved the sense of humor between Garrett and Mike. They seemed like two real guys that would be arguing over their love lives. Though it does seem that reading Play Me will help with reading the next installment, Take Me, which features Mike finding his love. Or at least you get more into Mike's head before his actual book, which isn't a bad thing either way.
"What did she do to you know?"
Garrett closed his eyes. "She didn't do anything at all."
"Yeah, okay. And I'm Mother Teresa."
"Hey, nice to meet you," Garrett said, holding out his hand. "I admire your work."
Mike slapped his hand away. "Fuck off. I'm not holding your hand. People will think we're together."
"Please. You'd be lucky to be here with me."
There were times when I wanted to flat out smack Kiersten and I had to let Diane Alberts know that I had never wanted to smack a pregnant woman before. Kiersten was just so damn stubborn!
But isn't that a good thing though? You know, when an author makes you feel shit with their words? Good or bad, that's what Alberts did. I laughed at the guys zingers and got made at Kiersten for not talking to Garrett and admitting to her feelings.
Of all things, it was Chris, Kiersten's nephew who she's raising as her own, that said what I really wanted to say to these two characters:
"You two are confusing. I'm gonna go watch How I Met Your Mother, and then take a shower." He motioned between them with his finger. "You two need to get your act together."
Okay, well, minus the stuff about that specific television show. I would've picked The Big Bang Theory instead.
If you're looking for a quick, light-hearted romantic read with a side of funny, I highly recommend Play Me and the rest of the "Take a Chance" series.
Single-mom Kiersten Worth finally puts the moves on her long time friend Garrett Kelly for a one night stand. The attraction between the two has been very mutual, but neither of them have acted upon it. Garrett wants more, but doesn't push Kiersten mostly because of the fact that her son is on his basketball team and he's best friends with her brother, Mike. Kiersten's plan hits a hitch when she ends up pregnant and guess what? Garrett is *gasp* an honorable man.
Though the story is the third in the "Take a Chance" series, each of them can be read independently. Kiersten and Mike are the siblings of Brianna from Love Me, but other than that, not much is really needed to be known.
I loved the sense of humor between Garrett and Mike. They seemed like two real guys that would be arguing over their love lives. Though it does seem that reading Play Me will help with reading the next installment, Take Me, which features Mike finding his love. Or at least you get more into Mike's head before his actual book, which isn't a bad thing either way.
"What did she do to you know?"
Garrett closed his eyes. "She didn't do anything at all."
"Yeah, okay. And I'm Mother Teresa."
"Hey, nice to meet you," Garrett said, holding out his hand. "I admire your work."
Mike slapped his hand away. "Fuck off. I'm not holding your hand. People will think we're together."
"Please. You'd be lucky to be here with me."
There were times when I wanted to flat out smack Kiersten and I had to let Diane Alberts know that I had never wanted to smack a pregnant woman before. Kiersten was just so damn stubborn!
But isn't that a good thing though? You know, when an author makes you feel shit with their words? Good or bad, that's what Alberts did. I laughed at the guys zingers and got made at Kiersten for not talking to Garrett and admitting to her feelings.
Of all things, it was Chris, Kiersten's nephew who she's raising as her own, that said what I really wanted to say to these two characters:
"You two are confusing. I'm gonna go watch How I Met Your Mother, and then take a shower." He motioned between them with his finger. "You two need to get your act together."
Okay, well, minus the stuff about that specific television show. I would've picked The Big Bang Theory instead.
If you're looking for a quick, light-hearted romantic read with a side of funny, I highly recommend Play Me and the rest of the "Take a Chance" series.
August 8, 2013
as seen on Gone Pecan
Characters
I just realized that I usually start with the woman, but today, I want to start with the hero. Garrett is in love with his best friend’s sister and has been since high school. He’s been secretly meeting with her to have drinks, thinking that they’re friends and nothing more, but he can’t seem to help himself with her. Then one night, Kiersten makes a move on him and she ends up PREGNANT. Oops.
Kiersten is just trying to scratch an itch and if it happens to be with someone who made her cheating ex-fiance jealous, all the better. Kiersten knows that Garrett has a thing for her, and she’s attracted to him, but she just cannot get past being thrown over by her ex for his secretary. She thinks she’s somehow not worthy or just not the type of person who can find romantic love. Kiersten does have plenty of love to go around, as witnessed by her becoming mother to her late sister’s son, who she’s raised since he was a baby, and she loves her brother and sister, but she thinks she’ll just have to live without that great love that her sister has with her husband. But now she has a baby on the way and it looks like Garrett is making a move to become a permanent piece of her family puzzle.
Overall Thoughts:
It was a sweet romance. I loved Garrett. He was so head over heels for Kiersten that even his best friend, her brother, would call him on it and tell him he needed to move on. Garrett was at turns hopeful and dejected around Kiersten because she made all the decisions. If it was up to him, he would have married her immediately upon learning that she was pregnant with his child, but Kiersten had her wall firmly in place and had no intention of ever letting Garrett, or any man, breach it. I really felt for him because I just couldn’t get behind Kiersten’s issues. Her distrust of Garrett was misguided, especially since she’d known him practically all her life and knew the kind of man he was. But all in all, I did like the book and I want to read the other two books that came before it (hopefully there is a little more exposition of Kiersten’s family dynamics). The sex scenes were fantastic and really made the book better in my opinion. I thought it was a sports romance book, as I mentioned on twitter, because of the basketball on the cover, but Garrett is a basketball coach and that’s the extent of that. I wanted to read it straight through and put off doing my homework and it was totally worth it.
Characters
I just realized that I usually start with the woman, but today, I want to start with the hero. Garrett is in love with his best friend’s sister and has been since high school. He’s been secretly meeting with her to have drinks, thinking that they’re friends and nothing more, but he can’t seem to help himself with her. Then one night, Kiersten makes a move on him and she ends up PREGNANT. Oops.
Kiersten is just trying to scratch an itch and if it happens to be with someone who made her cheating ex-fiance jealous, all the better. Kiersten knows that Garrett has a thing for her, and she’s attracted to him, but she just cannot get past being thrown over by her ex for his secretary. She thinks she’s somehow not worthy or just not the type of person who can find romantic love. Kiersten does have plenty of love to go around, as witnessed by her becoming mother to her late sister’s son, who she’s raised since he was a baby, and she loves her brother and sister, but she thinks she’ll just have to live without that great love that her sister has with her husband. But now she has a baby on the way and it looks like Garrett is making a move to become a permanent piece of her family puzzle.
Overall Thoughts:
It was a sweet romance. I loved Garrett. He was so head over heels for Kiersten that even his best friend, her brother, would call him on it and tell him he needed to move on. Garrett was at turns hopeful and dejected around Kiersten because she made all the decisions. If it was up to him, he would have married her immediately upon learning that she was pregnant with his child, but Kiersten had her wall firmly in place and had no intention of ever letting Garrett, or any man, breach it. I really felt for him because I just couldn’t get behind Kiersten’s issues. Her distrust of Garrett was misguided, especially since she’d known him practically all her life and knew the kind of man he was. But all in all, I did like the book and I want to read the other two books that came before it (hopefully there is a little more exposition of Kiersten’s family dynamics). The sex scenes were fantastic and really made the book better in my opinion. I thought it was a sports romance book, as I mentioned on twitter, because of the basketball on the cover, but Garrett is a basketball coach and that’s the extent of that. I wanted to read it straight through and put off doing my homework and it was totally worth it.
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